The Runway Advantage

We’re a women and minority-owned firm led by former finance professionals, bringing a unique lens to every search — shaped by firsthand experience and extensive industry insight.

We know the work, understand the talent, and move with urgency without cutting corners to deliver high-quality accounting, finance, and operations talent.

Kristin Li, Co-Founder of Runway Search recruiting firm

With over 20 years of recruiting experience, we’re passionate about connecting the right people with the right opportunities.

Meet the Team

Kristin Li
Co-Founder

After graduating from the College of William and Mary with her accounting degree, Kristin started her career at PwC in Financial Services Advisory, before moving into recruiting for the last 13 years.

Before launching Runway Search, she built strong experience at large, public and boutique search firms in the Bay Area, consistently ranking in the top 1% of producers and achieving record billings during her tenure.

A midwest native, Kristin lives in San Francisco with her puppy Waffle. She’s a graduate of the French Culinary Institute with a diploma in Pastry Arts and loves to bake.

Natalie Valdez, Co-Founder of Runway Search

Natalie Valdez
Co-Founder

Natalie graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied accounting and business administration. She spent the first 10 years of her career with PwC and in fund accounting, before making the leap into recruiting to pursue her passion for building lasting relationships.

Prior to co-founding Runway Search, Natalie built a strong track record at a top Bay Area recruiting firm, placing top talent at pre-IPO startups and public companies.

A native of Los Angeles, she currently resides in San Francisco with her partner Clarence and Australian Shepherd, Cali.

Our Values

  • Quality over Quantity

    We don’t send resumes to check a box. Every candidate we deliver is carefully selected for skill, intent, and impact.

  • People First

    We build relationships, not pipelines. Trust, transparency, and clear communication guide every search.

  • Integrity

    Doing the right thing is at the core of how we work, even when it’s not easy. It’s how we build trust that lasts.

  • Equity

    Our network reflects a broad range of diverse backgrounds and experiences because better hiring starts with better access.